Black Trousers Are a Timeless Wardrobe Staple—7 Shoes That Work Best With Them

Whenever the change of seasons hits the horizon, the first thing my attention turns to is to the state of my wardrobe basics. Among the white t-shirts and staple knitwear, I'd count black trousers as a fashion essential. Whether you prefer the French-inspired cigarette pant or a more classic straight-leg style, the black trouser is incredibly versatile, easily dressed up or down to suit work, date night, Sunday afternoons at the pub and plenty of other occasions besides. When it comes to exercising their versatility, shoes play an essential role. So, where to begin?

As a classic piece, black trousers inevitably pair excellently with equally classic shoes. Think penny loafers, sleek ballet flats and the staple ankle boot. But there's plenty of space to play, too — switch the black leather ballet flats for a joyfully colourful pair in electric blue, butter yellow or green, or dress the trousers down with a bright pair of trainers. Alternatively, give your black trousers a sexy yet elegant twist by styling them with a pair of pointed-toe slingbacks.

Whatever your mood, whatever the occasion, scroll on to see which shoes tastemakers are proving work exceptionally well with black trousers of all varieties.

The Best Shoes to Wear With Black Trousers:

1. Loafers

Style Notes: The loafer is an absolute staple of the autumn wardrobe, and it works particularly well with black trousers. To stay particularly on trend this season, opt for a penny loafer or chunkier silhouette and style with thick white socks.

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M&S Collection

Leather Loafers

A classic that doesn't break the bank.

Massimo Dutti

Leather Loafers With Penny Strap

I love the gold hardware on this pair — it gives them a distinctive, vintage vibe.

Gucci

Women's Loafer With Horsebit

A minimalist's dream loafer.

2. Flat Sandals

Style Notes: Soak up the final glimmers of sunshine and sunny days by styling your black trousers with black sandals. While there are plenty of versions to choose from, I find the Birkenstock and black trouser combination the coolest option.

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& Other Stories

Criss-Cross Leather Sandals

As this styling proves, these sandals also look great with jeans.

Birkenstock

St Barths Natural Leather

These buckles really elevate the classic Birks.

A.EMERY

Kinto Leather Flip Flops

AEYDE

Anna Leather Slides

A slide is another great sandal option that leans into the understated elegance of black trousers.

Ideal for a monochromatic look.

3. Pointed-Toe Heels

Style Notes: The best thing about black trousers is how easy they are to dress up or down. When you want a more elevated look, turn to a pair of pointed-toe heels to instantly elevate your outfit.

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Free People

Juls Kitten Heels

There's something so effortlessly cool about a pointed-toe heeled mule.

Reformation

Wrenley Heeled Slingback

A similar silhouette with a slightly more wearable heel.

Obsessed with the patent and pearl detail.

Maje

Smooth Leather Slingback Pumps

The gold toe cap is such a cool touch.

4. Pop of Colour Flats

Style Notes: With black as your backdrop, you've got plenty of colours left in your fashion wheelhouse to play with. Many minimalists favour keeping the outfit simple and letting the shoes be the statement — follow their example and opt for bright pops of blue, green and more that are sure to boost your mood, too.

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ARKET

Leather Ballet Flats

Bright enough to convince me its spring.

H&M

Mary Jane Ballet Pumps

It's been the dominant colour all year, and it's not going anywhere this season.

Flabelus

Velvet Oe Mary Janes

Playful, vibrant and elegant all in one.

Whistles

Yellow Hai Honoree Shoe

Maybe not ideal for rainy days, but they're irresistably pretty.

STAUD

Alba Suede Ballet Flats

A perfect autumnal green.

5. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Ballet flats and trousers are a combination that have the French seal of fashionable approval. Lean into the Parisian vibe by pairing yours with a slightly cropped trouser silhouette.

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Reformation

Tina Ballet Flat

No one would believe these are a high street pair.

M&S Collection

Leather Slip on Flat Ballet Pumps

The wear-them-anywhere flat

AEYDE

Delfina Suede Ballet Flats

This tan suede would pair beautifully with black.

TOTEME

The Minimalist Suede Ballet Flats

6. Sharp Ankle Boots

Style Notes: The approach of autumn can mean only one thing: boot season. When it comes to trousers, ankle boots are your best bet, and to keep it feeling contemporary, I'd recommend opting for a sleek heeled silhoutte with a sharp point.

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Reformation

Gillian Ankle Boot

The kind of boot that goes with everything.

M&S Collection

Leather Kitten Heel Pointed Ankle Boots

These look so much more expensive than they are.

& Other Stories

Kitten Heel Ankle Boots

I love the subtle Western vibe of these.

AEYDE

Sila Smooth and Snake-Effect Leather Ankle Boots

Make a statement with this snakeskin-panelled pair.

STUART WEITZMAN

Stassi Suede Ankle Boots

Perfect for the work week and weekends alike.

7. Bright Trainers

Style Notes: Black trousers may be a professional wardrobe staple, but one of the easiest ways to keep them relaxed is by pairing with trainers. Take the opportunity to show off a colourful pair that will really pop against the black.

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ADIDAS ORIGINALS

Sl 72 Og Suede and Leather-Trimmed Nylon Sneakers

The must-have trainer colour this season.

Free People

Gola Hawk Suede Sneakers

This powder blue is so versatile.

NIKE

Field General Paneled Sneakers

Were you a fan of the butter yellow trend this summer? This pair is for you.

DRIES VAN NOTEN

Leather-Trimmed Suede Sneakers

The designer trainer to know this season.

Free People

Puma Palermo Trainers